Peak retail industry body the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has urged state and federal governments to restrict the introduction of new legislation that could burden retailers with added compliance costs during this period of economic concern.ARA Executive Director Richard Evans said during one of the hardest economic times for retailers, decision makers are continuing to push through legislation across the country - including unit pricing, plastic bag bans, emissions trading schemes, parental... ...Read more »

In spite of, or perhaps because of, tough economic times, many Americans are clinging to their smallest, most indulgent pleasures, with chocolate, alcohol and cigarette sales remaining solid. New research from Mintel shows market sales for chocolate, cigarettes and alcohol strong and steady. Historically, these “sin stocks” have performed well during times of economic recession. “Chocolate, cigarettes and alcohol again seem relatively recession-proof,” commented Marcia... ...Read more »